As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles stands out. These narratives probe intricate topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, families rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective treatment solution – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
